Sizing a van around what you are moving
List the largest items with rough length, width and height, and give an estimate of total weight, because bulk and payload limit a van in different ways. Mention anything awkward, such as a wardrobe that cannot be dismantled or long timber. Describe loading at both ends, including stairs, lift access, distance from the kerb and whether anyone will help lift.
Picking a suitable van
Start with the load, then choose the van. A small van works well for boxes, tools and light collections; medium and long-wheelbase vans suit furniture, stock and trade equipment; and a Luton is the better choice for bulkier items on a house move. Subject to dates, driver details and availability, the range includes the Volkswagen Caddy, Ford Transit SWB, VW Transporter Automatic, Ford Transit MWB and Ford Transit LWB. Make, model, transmission, seats, payload and licence position are all confirmed at quote stage, so treat these vehicles as a guide to the kind of hire on offer rather than a guaranteed reservation of a particular model.
Allowing Time for Packing and Loading
How many hours will the job really need? Settle that before locking in the hire dates. Work backwards from any fixed deadline, such as a completion date, a storage unit handover or a delivery slot, and allow a comfortable margin rather than a tight one. Note when helpers can attend and when the property or site will be open, including gate codes or key holder arrangements you have agreed. Write down the phone numbers of anyone receiving items at the destination, so any change of plan can be passed on quickly. When you enquire, share these timings with the team and ask whether the dates you are considering leave a sensible amount of room for everything involved, from the first stop to the last handover.
Keeping a Load Inventory
A written inventory turns a vague job into a clear one. List every item travelling, grouped by room, by customer or by delivery address, and note the quantity beside each. Add approximate dimensions for the larger pieces, such as wardrobes, workbenches or pallets, and flag anything awkward like long pipes or a three-seat sofa. Where goods are going to several recipients, record each address with a contact name and number, and note any time windows they have given. This record can be checked on the day and shared with the team, who can then advise whether a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van matches the list you have drawn up.
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Last checks before booking
Before the hire is confirmed, go over the key points: whether the vehicle is available, the driver requirements, mileage, insurance, the delivery or collection arrangements and any extras you have asked for. Make sure payload, loading height, tail-lift needs, driver details, deposits and insurance excess are confirmed before you settle on a van size. A clear request gives the date, the length of hire, a rough route, the delivery or pickup address, the passengers or load you expect and any special requirements that might affect which vehicle is suitable.